Rare tree species found in Assam
Garcinia Kusumae Discovered in Assam: A new species of tree, Garcinia kusumae, has been discovered in the forests of Assam, adding to India’s growing list of botanical richness. Locally known as Thoikora, this plant is native to the lush tropical ecosystems of Northeast India.
This new find highlights the ecological value of Assam, which already houses 12 species and 3 varieties of Garcinia. The discovery also underscores the need to protect India’s rich but often overlooked biodiversity.
Features of Garcinia kusumae
Garcinia kusumae is a tropical evergreen tree that belongs to the genus Garcinia, which comprises over 200 species globally.
It is dioecious, meaning male and female flowers grow on separate trees. The plant can reach heights of up to 18 metres, standing tall in forested areas.
Static GK fact: The genus Garcinia is known for other popular species such as Garcinia indica (kokum) and Garcinia cambogia, both of which have culinary and medicinal uses in India.
Uses of the fruit
Locals use the fruit of Garcinia kusumae in multiple traditional ways. One of its most well-known uses is in making a sherbet drink, which helps prevent heatstroke during hot summer days.
Apart from this, the fruit plays a role in culinary dishes and traditional medicine, particularly for managing diabetes and treating dysentery. Its medicinal use aligns with other Garcinia species known for containing bioactive compounds like hydroxycitric acid (HCA).
Assam’s biodiversity gets a boost
Assam is part of the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot, one of the richest and most threatened ecological zones in the world. The identification of Garcinia kusumae strengthens the region’s status as a biological goldmine.
Researchers and conservationists are now urging more exploration and preservation of the local flora, especially in forest zones that remain largely undocumented.
Static GK Tip: India is home to over 49,000 plant species, with nearly 33% endemic to the country—meaning they are found nowhere else in the world.
Calls for conservation and research
The discovery also opens avenues for further pharmacological research. Given the plant’s traditional use for health issues, scientific studies may validate its potential for future natural remedies.
Experts believe more undiscovered species like Garcinia kusumae exist in the dense forests of Northeast India, waiting to be recorded and preserved.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
| Fact | Detail |
| Local name | Thoikora |
| Scientific name | Garcinia kusumae |
| Region discovered | Assam, Northeast India |
| Plant type | Evergreen, dioecious tree |
| Max height | Up to 18 metres |
| Key use | Sherbet drink for heatstroke |
| Medicinal uses | Diabetes, dysentery |
| Genus | Garcinia |
| Total Garcinia in Assam | 12 species, 3 varieties |
| Biodiversity zone | Indo-Burma hotspot |
